Former Liverpool FC and Everton FC defender Gary Ablett has been named as the new manager of Coca-Cola League One club Stockport.

The 43-year-old, who left his post as Liverpool FC's reserve team manager in May, beat off competition from former Celtic and Northern Ireland midfielder Neil Lennon to land the post.

Jim Melrose, who is heading a consortium which is on the brink of completing a takeover of the Edgeley Park club, said: "After a lengthy process I am delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Ablett as the new manager of Stockport County.

"Gary has a fantastic pedigree, having enjoyed a career at the very highest level and he has a big reputation for the quality of his coaching at Liverpool and Everton over the last few years."